We are so happy to have David back at Little Lake Hill! His first show(s) here sold out in no time. He is a master storyteller through song and, well, stories!

As distinctive a performer as he is a writer, David Massengill accompanies himself mainly on the Appalachian dulcimer, which he slings over his shoulder like an electric guitar. The sound of the dulcimer has an intimate, detailed quality that complements the easy graciousness of Massengill's stage presence. He has achieved a virtuosity on the traditional instrument that enables him to wring from its few strings music of a complexity and richness far beyond anything it was ever meant to produce, drawing the listener in to his lyrical imagery and the close-up focus on human foibles and experience that is the substance of his best songs. David's long Southern drawl (Bristol Tennessee) lends for captive storytelling, such as: Jesus escapes from a mental hospital, history's greatest villains gather for a dinner party, a New York restaurant kitchen crew saves an illegal alien cook from the immigration man, a young woman and a bandit fall in love as he robs her … these are just some of the vividly imagined scenes and characters with which David Massengill captivates audiences wherever he performs. Massengill's songs are rich with insight and poetic imagery, they're upbeat and engaging but full of subtle complexities; this Appalachian dulcimer player with the soft-edged vocal style and offhand stage presence is acknowledged to be one of America's finest songwriters. You can read more at David's website.

Massengill fits into the same American tradition of ironic exaggeration and humor that gave rise to Mark Twain and Garrison Keillor.

"Massengill's lyrical facility is the most astounding to appear since that of Elvis Costello; he can be wickedly funny and deeply touching in the same line, and his imagination seems unlimited." The All American Music Guide

"There's an inherent spirituality to some of his writing. but it's obviously a spirituality born of considerable thought, not blind faith. His voice has the kind of Southern drawl that makes for compelling storytelling and the arrangements, which are built around his mountain dulcimer playing, seem just right." Sing Out!

David has released 2 CDs since his last appearance here. He very recently released his 5th CD, We Will Be Together which is 7 project rolled onto one disc. It is a tribute to Dave Von Ronk, songs about revisiting his hometown of Bristol, TN-VA, valentine/lullaby/love songs, and, of course, many imaginative stories and sagas.

Have a listen to some of David's tunes here and also at show number #15 below

David studied Anthropology at UNC in Chapel Hill, but always wanted to be a Bohemian, which is how he got his start in music. You will have to come to the show to find out the end of this story!  Reservations ($10) for this show are necessary and may be made at (919) 787-6378 or email bett@bettpadgett.com. Please limit reservation parties to 4 people. He has many fans from his UNC days, so don't wait too long!